Description
This creamy beef and bowtie pasta recipe is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Ground beef is simmered with tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasonings, then combined with tender bowtie pasta and a rich, creamy sauce made from heavy cream and melted cheese. Garnished with fresh parsley, this meal offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
Beef Mixture
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Cream Sauce
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella
Garnish
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to use later in the recipe.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Then add the shredded cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy beef sauce.
- Serve: Garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream.
- Use mozzarella for a milder cheesy flavor or cheddar for a sharper taste.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms when cooking the beef for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave while stirring to maintain creamy texture.